What Are Tectonic Plates?
7. Transform Boundaries
The third type of tectonic plate boundary is the transform boundary. In transform boundaries, the plates neither push toward or pull apart from each other. Instead, they scrape past each other as they move. This sliding will often cause tension to build up between the plates.
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The tension will continue to build until eventually something gives way, and the plates snap much like an elastic band will snap under too much pressure. This causes a tremendous release of energy and can be responsible for some of the largest earthquakes. When this occurs beneath the ocean, devastating tsunamis can also be released.
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